Can I appoint you my executor ?" "Certainly," said I.
"I'm very grateful.

I'll assure you a fireworks sort of finish, so that you shan't be ashamed.

And--I don't ask impossibilities--I can't hold you to your previous promise--but what about Betty Connor ?" "You may count," said I, "on my acting like an officer and a gentleman, and, if I may say so, like a Christian." He said: "Thank you, Meredyth.

Good-bye." Then he stuck on his cap, brought his fingers to the peak in salute and marched to the door.
"Boyce!" I cried sharply.
He turned.

"Yes ?" "Aren't you going to shake hands with me ?" He retraced the few steps to my chair.
"I didn't know whether it would be--" he paused, seeking for a word--"whether it would be agreeable." Then I broke down.